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‘I feel like I could have been really effeminate if I hadn’t gone to the school I went to, where I felt like I had to toughen up. If I’d have been able to relax, prance around, sing in the street, I might be a different person now. I thank my dad for that, for not allowing me to go down that path. Because it’s probably given me the unique quality that people think I have.’

That’s a quote from Russell Tovey from a 2015 interview with the Guardian. When it was first published, trust me, I went in on him. I had a problem with him creating a hierarchy of masculinity within the gay community. I felt faggy just reading it, my twig-like arms struggling to hold the newspaper.

About Gay Times

In this issue, we highlight the queer people of colour who continue to fight for equality, justice and visibility all over the world. Fresh from a media firestorm surrounding comments she made about white supremacy, we talk to Munroe Bergdorf about the importance of speaking up; Jason Okundaye about the controversy surrounding his claims about widespread racism in the UK; Bisi Alimi on how only death will prevent him for fighting for the lives of LGBT+ Nigerians; and Travis Alabanza on using performance as a salve for healing.
We also look at how activists like Bayard Rustin paved the way for generations of young activists, and how musicians like Sylvester and Ma Rainey set the blueprint for artists like Prince, Beyonce and Rihanna.
Allies and media representation continue to play an important role in the modern gay rights movement. Luke Goss speaks on the “absurdity” of having to vote on human rights issues, and we look at how programmes like Will and Grace have had such an enduring impact on the lives of LGBT+ people around the world.
Elsewhere in the issue, John Waters on making trouble; drag performer Amrou Al-Kadhi on finding love; openly gay actor and musician Jussie Smollett on his groundbreaking role on Empire; and Charli XCX on her never-ending adoration for her gay fans.
Finally, our cover star, Harry Judd, takes us on his journey of battling anxiety and stress with fitness and implores all of us to approach a more holistic approach to our lives and wellbeing. As usual, the issue is packed with style, travel, opinion and politics, and is available to download now.